The Royal Family - Antonio D'Alessandro

Antonio D'Alessandro

Position: Bellman

Years of Service: 30 Years

Bio

Not long after the Windsor Court’s grand opening in 1984, Antonio D’Alessandro began working at the hotel as a part-time valet—a job he held while still in school. Although he eventually took a brief, one-year hiatus, Antonio soon returned and settled into a full-time position at the hotel.

Today, with almost 30 years at Windsor Court under his belt, Antonio maintains the reputation of being “old school” – a dedicated, reliable member of the team who always recognizes returning guests. Although he’s not an official trainer, Antonio is always at the ready with helpful advice for new staff members.

As someone who avoids monotony and never shies away from new challenges, Antonio likens his job to reading a new book each day: the day-to-day work is constantly changing, but always rewarding. He values himself as an extension of guests’ families, and he’s learned the value of solid communication, both in good times and in bad. It’s this unwavering commitment to the hotel and his job that make Antonio a favorite among guests, who always rave about him as an "outstanding” staffer who “stands out as a great ambassador, from greeting to departure.”

Antonio, who previously lived in South America, moved to New Orleans 31 years ago and has never looked back. When not at the hotel, he can often be found at home playing with his three dogs, two of which are rescues. He also spends as much time as possible with his children: a 13-year-old daughter and 18-year-old son. A proud parent who always lights up at even the mention of his kids, Antonio is particularly excited for his son to begin college at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, New York’s highly acclaimed acting school for rising stars in theater and film.

Favorite Windsor Court Moment

Thirty years lead to a lot of cherished memories, but according to Antonio, sometimes it’s just a matter of being in the right place at the right time. His favorite moment at Windsor Court is a perfect example, and it happened soon after he started working at the hotel.

A guest was carrying his infant daughter and lost his footing when walking through the lobby. He dropped the baby, but Antonio happened to be right there and opened his arms to catch the little girl, securing her safety. Many years have since passed, and the daughter, now college-aged, has grown up beautifully. “He’s the one who saved you,” her father said proudly when first introducing her to Antonio.

The guest returns to the hotel at least once a year and always makes a point to thank Antonio for his good deed. It was a small instance of being in the right place at the right time, but it’s one that neither the guest, nor Antonio, will ever forget.